Where to sleep in Matera?

Matera is a true hidden gem in southern Italy! It is a unique city that captivates visitors with its stone houses, known as “Sassi” and sleeping in the city can be an excellent choice. Today we are going to find out where to stay in Matera? Stay with us and make the most of the country of the boot!  Here at Italy’s Dream Tourism you can make the trip of your dreams come true!!! Also check out our Accommodation in Italy Section – Tips for your Vacation!

Our Introduction

If you are planning a visit to Matera, in the heart of the Basilicata region, and are looking for accommodation options, this post will reveal not only where to stay, but also the city’s rich history and some of its must-see attractions. Today we are going to find out where to stay in Matera. Choosing a hotel in Matera can be tricky, given the wide range of options available, so today I am bringing you five excellent hotel options in Matera. Let’s take a look at them. Also read our Special Post: How to Plan a Trip to Italy?

Accommodation Tips in Matera

Here are my tips for staying in Matera! And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave your comment here.

1) Corte San Pietro

Located in the Sassi di Matera, Matera’s UNESCO-listed historic center, Corte San Pietro is housed in a renovated historic building carved from stone. The unique rooms have a primitive yet elegant style, with hand-carved wooden fixtures and handcrafted stonework. All accommodations overlook the property’s inner courtyard, where breakfast is served in the summer.

At San Pietro, you can ask to visit an underground system of cisterns that were probably interconnected during World War II. The city’s cathedral is a 5-minute walk away. The property is located next to the Parco della Murgia Nature Reserve.

To find out more and book this hotel, click here!

2) La Suite Matera Hotel & SPA

La SUITE Matera is located in Matera, 600 meters from the MUSMA Museum and 500 meters from the Church of San Giovanni Battista. It is ideally located for those traveling by car, as it is close to the historic center and you can park inside the hotel and explore everything on foot. In addition, the accommodations are excellent and the staff very attentive, meaning you will be staying in the middle of the Sassi.

But be careful, as every hotel that is close to the historic center of any city has a ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone)!!!! At this 5-star hotel you can also enjoy a wonderful buffet or Italian breakfast. Points of interest near La SUITE Matera include Tramontano Castle, Matera Cathedral and Casa Noha.

To find out more and book, click here!

3) Locanda di San Martino

A charming option, combining the charm of ancient caves with modern amenities such as a spa and restaurant. Located 700 metres from Matera Cathedral, Locanda Di San Martino Hotel & Thermae Romanae offers 3-star accommodation in Matera with a beautiful terrace and a swimming pool. This hotel has a special atmosphere and a cozy place to stay. Popular points of interest near the hotel include MUSMA Museum, Casa Grotta nei Sassi and Tramontano Castle.

To find out more and book, click here!

4) UNAHOTELS MH Matera

For a welcoming experience, consider this incredible hotel. Also very well located, the property offers excellent services in a central location. UNAHOTELS MH Matera features indoor and outdoor pools, a gym and free parking.

The property is set in a 5-hectare park, a 10-minute drive from the UNESCO-listed Sassi di Matera. The wellness center is complete with a sauna, Turkish bath and relaxation area, as well as sensory showers. Massages and beauty treatments are also available. The La Piazzetta restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and serves delicious regional and international dishes. The Pavillion Pantry store is convenient for snacks, drinks and travel necessities.

To find out more and book, click here! 

5) Basiliani Hotel

Set in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Matera Sassi, Basiliani Hotel offers modern rooms set in ancient buildings, all overlooking the prehistoric caves of the Chiese Rupestri Archaeological Park. All rooms feature a modern design and have a separate entrance. A buffet breakfast with a wide range of local products is available daily at the property. A buffet breakfast is also served daily and is wonderful. Free street parking is available nearby.

To find out more and book, click here!

Learn more about Accommodation in Italy…

Do you have no experience in booking hotels in Italy? Then learn right now with our special posts! Also read: How to book a hotel in Italy without falling into a trap? and Differences between hotel categories in Italy!

How to get to Matera?

You can get to Matera by different means of transport, depending on your location and preferences. Here are some of the most common options.

1) How to get to Matera? BY TRAIN!

The closest train station to Matera is Bari Centrale Train Station. From there, you can take a train to Matera Train Station, which is located outside the historic center. The train ride offers panoramic views of the landscape, but you will waste more time traveling by public transport.

2) How to get to Matera? BY BUS!

Intercity buses connect Matera to several nearby cities. You can take a bus from Bari or other cities in the region. Buses usually stop near the historic center of Matera.

3) How to get to Matera? BY CAR!

If you are traveling through the Basilicata region or other parts of Italy, it may be convenient to rent a car. Matera is well connected by roads and highways, making it easy to get there by car.

Traveling by car in Italy

How about if I give you an itinerary option with a rental car? Let’s go! If you are going to rent a car, be sure to read our posts in the Driving in Italy section on the Italy’s Dream Tourism blog. In addition to tips for driving itineraries, we have everything about signage, tolls, roads and many other tips.

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Important to Know

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Advantages of traveling with a rental car

• If you are traveling with 2 to 5 people, it is the most economical option! You just need to choose the places to visit calmly and leave without any worries! Always have a map with you, or opt for a car with GPS; not all cars have this option! Oh, and your cell phone can be a problem if you pass through a place without an internet signal. 

Disadvantages of traveling with a rental car

• Unforeseen expenses with parking and fuel, which unfortunately cannot be calculated, but this is normal. In my opinion, the biggest disadvantage is the lack of knowledge of the territory, which can sometimes result in wasting time finding the main cities, and turning an otherwise pleasant trip into a nightmare!
• Generally, those who drive are unable to enjoy the beautiful views around them.

A little bit of Matera’s history…

The history of Matera is a city located in the Basilicata region of southern Italy and dates back thousands of years, making it one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. The highlight of Matera is its historic center, known as the “Sassi di Matera” (Stones of Matera), made up of houses and churches carved directly into the limestone rocks.

Prehistory and Ancient Civilizations

Archaeological evidence suggests that the Matera region was inhabited as early as the Paleolithic. The surrounding natural caves were initially occupied by prehistoric communities. During the Bronze Age, Matera was a prosperous city inhabited by the Italo-Greeks.

Romans and Byzantines

During the Roman period, Matera was known as “Matheola” and served as an important trading crossroads. Later, the city was ruled by the Byzantines, who fortified the area to protect it from invasion.

Medieval Period and the Normans

During the Middle Ages, Matera experienced a period of economic prosperity. The city’s most distinctive features, the Sassi, began to be carved into the rocks. The Normans conquered Matera in the 11th century.

Angioinian and Aragonese Periods

Under the rule of the Angevins and later the Aragonese, Matera continued to be an important administrative and commercial center. Many churches and palaces were built during this period.

Decline and Exodus

In the 17th and 18th centuries, Matera faced periods of economic and social decline. The population suffered from poverty and unsanitary conditions. Many inhabitants were forced to live in caves, resulting in an image of Matera associated with poverty.

Recognition and Restoration

In the 1950s, Matera’s precarious situation was brought to the world’s attention by Pier Paolo Pasolini’s film “The Passion of the Christ.” This led to the recognition of the historical and cultural value of the Sassi. In the late 20th century, a significant restoration project transformed the area, and in 1993, Matera was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today, Matera is celebrated for its unique architecture, and the Sassi are a renowned tourist attraction. The city is a testament to human resilience over the centuries and represents a fascinating combination of history, culture and architectural beauty.

Must-Sees in Matera:

• Sassi di Matera: Explore the labyrinthine streets of the Sassi, where each cave tells a unique story. Visit the Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario for an authentic glimpse into cave life.
• The Matera Cathedral: It’s dedicated to Maria Santissima della Bruna and is an architectural masterpiece that combines Romanesque and Apulian styles.
• Belvedere di Murgia Timone: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from this lookout point, providing a stunning view of the Sassi and the surrounding valley.
• San Pietro Caveoso Church: One of Matera’s many cave churches, this church features frescoes and unique architecture carved into the rocks.

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Conclusion

Where to sleep in Matera? Finding the perfect place to stay in Matera is not just a question of comfort, but also the chance to immerse yourself in a unique and cultural experience! By choosing from the charming accommodation options in the Sassi, you will not only rest, but also experience the history of this extraordinary city.

Matera, with its rich heritage and incomparable beauty, invites travelers to get lost in its stone streets, discover the secrets of its caves and be enveloped by the authenticity that permeates each accommodation. When choosing where to stay in Matera, you will not only find shelter, but also be part of a timeless narrative, transforming your stay into a memory that will last beyond the stone walls and starry nights. It is MUCH worth considering spending at least one night in this magical city!

Do you feel insecure traveling?

If you need help organizing your trip, do not hesitate to contact me! I would love to help you make your dream trip to Italy.

Did my post help you, or do you still have questions? Leave your comment below, and I’ll get back to you!

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